Out of the Blue

Five outstanding musicians from the Russian River area of Sonoma County, have been creating music and hijinks together for three years. The band performs jazz and swing music with an old time feel, mainly featuring tunes from the 1920’s, 30’s and 40’ such as Ain’t She Sweet and Five Foot Two. Their song list includes tunes from Hoagy Carmichael, Cole Porter, Duke Ellington and Louis Jordan. Sometimes they even throw in a little rock and roll. They mix up their music with enough levity to be highly entertaining.

The group is led by Mark Larson, vocalist and guitar player. Mark has over 30 years experience in music, with his roots in rock and roll, blues, bluegrass and jazz. On the accordion, Jerry Thompson (JT) was classically trained and has been playing a variety of styles of music for over 30 years. He currently plays a Roland FR-3 digital accordion. If you haven’t heard this instrument, prepare to be amazed! It reproduces 10 complete accordions, such as a pure Italian accordion, a French Musette and a South American Bandoneon. Additionally, this digital synthesizer accurately reproduces several horns and a perfect Hammond B3 organ. Along with Jerry and Mark, Terry Ann Gillette, with her unique style, provides exceptional solos on her violin with the flair of an old time fiddler. The rhythm section is anchored by Carol Shumate’s interpretive bass and Tommy Belton’s Traditional/Modern Jazz fusion on the drums.

Out of the Blue originally formed at the Blue Heron Restaurant in Duncans Mills. The band eventually moved “Out of the Blue” and they now play a regular gig every Tuesday night at Main Street Station in Guerneville. They just released their first CD titled First Stop: Main Street Station, which is available for purchase. There are 14 tunes on the CD, including Sweet Georgia Brown, Pennies from Heaven and Caravan. For a little something different, the CD ends with the band’s interpretation of Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here!

This summer they have been performing at the Napa Chef’s Market and other venues in the area. They are always available to entertain you. For information and bookings, contact Mark Larson at (707) 695-1021